The Denver Nuggets are exploring methods to reshape their roster round Nikola Jokic, and so they have indicated a willingness to debate a commerce package deal centered on ahead Zeke Nnaji and the No. 26 total choose within the 2026 NBA Draft, in line with Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Denver’s motivation is tied to its monetary scenario. The Nuggets are projected to strategy the NBA’s second apron, creating stress to cut back wage commitments and enhance roster flexibility. Nnaji is owed $7.47 million for the 2026-27 season and holds a $7.47 million participant possibility for 2027-28, making his contract a possible software in commerce discussions.
The 25-year-old ahead performed a restricted function throughout the 2025-26 season, averaging 3.7 factors, 2.6 rebounds and 0.6 assists in 12.0 minutes per sport over 52 appearances. Nnaji shot 47.0 p.c from the sphere however related on solely 25.9 p.c of his three-point makes an attempt, limiting his offensive influence.
Nonetheless, his contract worth and positional versatility might make him helpful in salary-matching eventualities. Nnaji has proven the flexibility to defend a number of frontcourt positions and has averaged 0.5 blocks per sport this season, including some inside presence behind Denver’s main bigs.
The Nuggets enter the offseason after ending 54-28 and third within the Western Convention. Denver superior to the playoffs however was eliminated in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves in six games.
Denver’s roster stays constructed round Jokic and Jamal Murray, who averaged 25.4 factors and seven.1 assists whereas earning All-NBA Third Team honors. The Nuggets additionally obtained main contributions from Aaron Gordon, Peyton Watson and offseason addition Tim Hardaway Jr., however their depth and monetary flexibility stay areas of focus.
The No. 26 choose provides Denver extra leverage. The 2026 NBA Draft class consists of a number of extremely regarded prospects, together with forwards AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson, together with guards Darryn Peterson and Darius Acuff Jr. A late first-round choose can be enticing to groups looking for cost-controlled expertise underneath the league’s present wage construction.
The Nuggets beforehand prioritized continuity round Jokic, however the second apron guidelines have elevated the problem of sustaining a deep roster. Transferring Nnaji with the twenty sixth choose might permit Denver so as to add a extra fast contributor or cut back long-term monetary stress.
